Private Island Close to the Mull of Kintyre Available for US$3.1 Million

Sanda Island, a picturesque 453-acre private island off the west coast of Scotland, is currently up for sale. This stunning island boasts sandy beaches, abundant puffins, seven houses, a pub, a helipad, and a flock of black-faced sheep. Situated between Scotland and Northern Ireland, Sanda Island is located off the southern tip of the Kintyre Peninsula, famously featured in the 1977 song "Mull of Kintyre" by Paul McCartney and Wings.

Throughout its history, Sanda Island has had connections with monks, saints, and kings. It has been visited by Scottish King Robert the Bruce and Norway's King Hacon, with its chapel linked to Saints Columba and Ninian. While the island has had various owners over the years, one of the most notable is Jack Bruce from the rock band Cream.

Access to Sanda Island is by boat or helicopter, with stone slipways at both ends of the island. The rolling green landscape is dotted with seven residential properties, offering accommodation for up to 26 people. At the southern end of the island sits a charming lighthouse perched on an outcrop, adding to the island's allure.

One of the island's main attractions is the Byron Darnton Tavern, named after a ship that wrecked off the island in 1946. Established in 2003 by previous owners Dick and Meg Gannon, the tavern operated during the summer months, catering to boat-bound customers. The pub still has an alcohol license, providing a potential opportunity for the new owner to revive this unique feature.

In addition to the pub, Sanda Island is home to a flock of black-faced sheep, which roam freely on the island. These sheep require minimal management and are included as part of the sale. Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse bird colonies on the island, including puffins, kittiwakes, cormorants, shags, and razorbills.

Sanda Island is affectionately known locally as "Spoon Island" due to its shape resembling an upturned spoon. The island also has the distinction of printing its own stamps, adding to its quirky charm. With its highest point reaching 23 meters (75 feet), the island offers breathtaking views of Northern Ireland's Antrim Hills across the North Channel on clear days.

The current asking price for Sanda Island is in excess of £2.5 million (US$3.1 million), with additional islands, Sheep Island and Glunimore Island, included in the sale.

Most of the accommodation on the island has been recently refurbished, with new double glazing installed. Energy on the island is currently generated by three generators, but there is potential for exploring renewable energy sources to supplement electricity supply. Interest in the sale of Sanda Island has been high, with numerous viewing requests already received.

Prospective buyers are likely to fall into two categories: those seeking a private retreat for personal use, and those looking to commercialize the pub and properties, enhance farming operations, and potentially become self-sufficient on the island. If the idea of owning your own private island and living off-grid appeals to you, now might be the perfect time to start saving up. Sanda Island offers a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and embrace the tranquility of island living.